Modular vending system for propane cylinders

ABSTRACT

A outdoor large item vending system for large items such as propane tanks, liquid petroleum gas cylinders of various sizes and other items that must be stored in and dispensed from a hazardous location compliant system (i.e. a Class I, Division 2 compliant system). The vending system can be placed on a store front, parking lot, campsite, or park, and comprises a main housing having compartments to hold large items such as propane container, which are dispensed from the compartments when a payment is made through a credit card reader interface located in the main housing. The large item vending system of the invention is powered by AC current which is turned to DC power by a power supply, or DC batteries charged by AC power and/or solar power, or by other power means.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally related to vending systems. Moreparticularly, the invention is related to a vending system fordispensing items such as propane (liquefied Petroleum Gas) containers orother products that require a vending machine that adheres to strictcodes, regulations and laws for storage and vending of potentiallyhazardous items (i.e. those items requiring a hazardous location ratingoutside a storefront or similar venue).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of self-service vending machines to dispense food, beverage(s),movies and other items is well-known in the art. A majority of thesevending machines are generally located outside a storefront to saveretail space within the interior of the store. Locations wherecontainers for LPG (liquid petroleum gas, or propane) will be stored andpotentially vended require special vending systems that can adhere toappropriate rules for Class I Division 2 hazardous locations. Asrecognized by those familiar with the regulations involved, Class Ilocations are those in which flammable vapors and gases may be present.In more detail, Division 2 locations are generally described as thoselocations where flammable vapors and gases are present only in abnormalcircumstances, such as those areas where ignitable concentrations ofhazards are handled, processed or used, but which are normally in closedcontainers or closed systems from which they can only escape throughaccidental rupture or breakdown of such containers or systems. In mostcases where propane tanks are stored, sold or exchanged, the tanks arehoused in locked metal cages. To purchase, the customer has to go insidethe store to make a payment for these items, a store employee mustlocate the key, go outside, unlock the cage and remove one of the tanks.Obviously, this is somewhat inconvenient, time consuming, inefficientand in many cases cannot be accomplished at all due to a lack of storepersonnel available to complete the task.

To have automated systems in the above mentioned Class I Division 2locations, several requirements must be met. Generally, any electricalsystem must operate at low voltage, low amperage, and cannot have anymake/break electrical connections which are not sealed (or intrinsicallyprotected or safe using other mechanisms). Thus, systems capable ofvending products in these locations must be carefully designed. Statedalternatively, to allow the normal operation of an electromechanicallock so that it can be safely used in a Hazardous location (specificallyClass I, Division 2) requires that the electrical actuator portion (thebrushed motor or solenoid) must be sealed is a compartment. Thiscompartment may be constructed of plastic or metal and any mating pointsof the compartment are sealed with screws, bolts, ultrasonic weldingtechniques, epoxy, silicone or a potting material or any combinationthereof. Sealing will eliminate know issues related to backelectromagnetic force (back EMF) and allow for safe operation. As setforth in the standards, testing in the following manner(s) confirm thecompartment is sufficiently sealed.

The sealed motor begins at an initial temperature of 25°±2{circumflexover ( )}C and the test samples are be immersed in water at atemperature of 50±2{circumflex over ( )}° C. to a minimum depth of 25 mmfor a minimum of 1 minute. If no bubbles emerge from the samples duringthis test, they are considered to be “sealed” for the purposed of thisstandard

Alternatively, a test sample (sealed motor) is immersed to a minimumdepth of 75 mm in water contained in an enclosure that can be partiallyevacuated. The air pressure within the enclosure shall then be reducedby at least 16 kPa. If no bubbles emerge from the samples during thistest, samples are considered to be sealed for the purpose of thisstandard.

In yet another alternative test, the sample shall be shown to leak at arate not greater than 10.5 ml of air per second at minimum pressuredifferential of 101 kPa by means of a suitable leak rate detector.

If the large items are stored in locked containers outside the store todeter theft, the customer may have to wait a period of time for thestore personnel to come out and unlock the containers to access theitems. This inconvenience of waiting for assistance from store personalto access these bulky items and pay for them can be frustrating. Thisfrustration is further magnified if the store is closed for the day andthe customer has to make another trip to the store when it is open topurchase the items. Additionally, having the products locked up andinaccessible to customers when the store is closed precludes theefficient sale and profitability of these items duringextended/non-traditional business hours.

Vending machines for dispensing propane tanks and other items requiringHazardous Location considerations have existed and are somewhat known.For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,761,194 (Blong) describes a system fordispensing a plurality of pressurized propane tanks. However, none ofthe existing vending systems for dispensing items uses a modularapproach that has the capability to quickly add-on and efficientlyintegrate additional modules to the main systems, such as by connectinga wiring harness from the existing module's computing hardware to thenew module's computing hardware or to attach wiring directly to theexisting module without adding additional computing hardware andattaching the new module. Stated differently, none of the existingsystems use module attachment hardware to accommodate expansion. Priorart hazardous location vending systems generally utilize an inert gassystem, or are mechanical in nature, to open doors or make the productavailable to customers. These systems are susceptible to failure, due tothe number of components involved and the exposure to harsh environments(i.e. rain, dirt/debris, etc.). There is a need for a system design thatincorporates an electromechanical locking device to open doors or makeproduct available to customers as this simplifies the process andgreatly reduces susceptibility to operating failures.

As further examples, U.S. Pat. No. 8,712,585 (Bruck et al.) describes avending apparatus and system that includes the use of optional modulesand U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2015/0102051 (Shimmerlik et al.) describesa modular vending machine system with re-loadable vertical productdispensing modules. These prior art vending systems are meant for usewithin a store to dispense consumable products and not for dispensinglarge and bulky items requiring a hazardous location designation such aspropane tanks.

Therefore, there is a need for a modular outdoor vending system capableof storing and dispensing propane tanks (of various sizes) and otheritems that must be stored in and dispensed from a hazardous locationcompliant system. There is a further need for a vending system that doesnot require continuous AC power for its operation. The vending systemcan ideally be operated using DC batteries which can be continuouslycharged by AC power or a solar power so that the system continues tooperate during power interruptions.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the modular outdoor vending system of the presentinvention substantially meet the need for an all-weather outdoor vendingsystem capable of dispensing, large, bulky items such as propane tanks,liquid petroleum gas cylinders, and other items that must be stored inand dispensed from a hazardous location compliant system (i.e. must meetClass I Division 2 standards for dispensing items such as propane). Inthe various embodiments, the system dispenses such products from modularunits that are connected to and controlled by a master unit. Themodularity of the invention allows it to be scaled in accordance withthe needs of the retailer, i.e., additional modular units can beattached to the master unit to accommodate available space and demand.The master unit immediately integrates and controls as many add-onmodules as are desired.

The systems described below are designed with very few moving parts andperforms diagnostic checks of the vending compartment and bypasses thosecompartments with errors. This not only ensures a greater percentage ofsuccessful sales, it greatly reduces machine down time in which itcannot vend at all. Also, the system design allows for deferredmaintenance because the bypassed doors do not require immediateattention and repair can wait until a predetermined number ofcompartments are out of service. The system also sends real time salesdata and periodic (24 hrs or less) health reports through the telemetrysystem which allows for streamlined refill operations as opposed to thecages most propane tanks are stored in at store fronts which requireregular visits to ensure supply is adequate. The system restock functionalso only opens up the compartments that have been vended since the lastrefill. This dramatically reduces re-stock time as the re-stocker doesnot have to lift every tank to see if it is full or an empty return.This also reduces mistakes which result in an empty being left in anautomated machine and it vends to a customer.

The vending system has a modular design that allows it to be sized tofit available space by connecting one or more free standing add-onmodules in line with the existing modules. An add-on module can be addedto the master module by clamping the modules together and connecting awiring harness of the add-on module to the wiring of the existing add-onmodule. In accordance with this embodiment, the master module canelectronically acquire the new add-on module and assimilate it into thesystem so that it is substantially immediately ready for vending. Thus,the system can be quickly scaled to use as many additional add-onmodules as required or desired. In addition, each module can be set withdifferent pricing to assure that multiple types of products can bedispensed from one system.

A system of the present invention thus allows retailers to carry andsell large or otherwise bulky items that might take up considerablefloor space within retail premises, or that might be stored outsideretail premises in an unsecured and unprotected environment. Propanetanks of various sizes and other items that must be stored in anddispensed from a hazardous location compliant system. The system enablescustomers to purchase such items by credit or debit cards without anyassistance from store personnel and without the need to enter the storeto pay for the items. Retailers can thus stock and sell large orotherwise bulky items in a fully secure and unsupervised manner bothwithin and outside of normal operating hours. Accordingly, the inventionfrees retailers from having to move, restack, or re-arrange large itemsto avoid obstructions or unsightly displays, or from having toconstantly monitor the premises to prevent thefts of large items storedoutside.

In one embodiment, the vending system is DC (Direct Current) powered andcontinuously recharged using either AC (Alternate Current) power orsolar power using an optional onboard mounted, commercially availablesolar panel(s). By having AC power to recharge the DC batteries allowssystem operation during power interruptions of up to 24 hours. Inaddition, the ability to use solar energy allows the vending system tobe placed away from the store front, for example in a parking lot or inremote areas. This further accommodates placement in “non-traditional”locations, such as state parks, camping sites and other recreationalareas where AC power is not available. In these circumstances, the needfor AC power and the cost of using AC power is eliminated. In oneembodiment, the ability to use solar power to operate the DC batteriesallows the system to operate for up to four days without access to anyother power source. With solar capabilities, convenient access tocamping supplies such as propane tanks, liquid petroleum gas cylinders,etc., is provided 24 hours per day, seven days per week. In lieu ofusing solar-charged batteries for power, another embodiment of thevending system may use an AC-to-DC power supply operably connected to astandard wall plug.

In sum, various embodiments of the present invention can save time,money, and provide a convenient, secure and reliable way to make Propanetanks (of various sizes) and other items that must be stored in anddispensed from a hazardous location compliant system available to theconsumer all day, every day, without the need for retailer assistance orsupervision. The various power supply systems, modes of operation, andsafety considerations make this possible. In addition, the system isefficient and user friendly, with several features specifically designedto provide necessary items to users.

The vending system further includes a master module control box whichincludes master computing hardware, a product selection display, and akey pad or touch pad to provide an easy user interface. The module willinclude a display with item prices indicated next to the products and acredit/debit card reader interface to execute payments for the productpurchase. The credit/debit card reader interface will communicate withnecessary telemetry which may be a commercially available system thatincludes a cellular uplink to authorize and complete cashlesstransactions. This credit card system communicates with the mastercomputing hardware via RS-232, USB, ethernet or similar connection. Thecredit/debit card system can optionally be connected directly to a hostpoint-of-sale (POS) system via Ethernet or other type of connection.Such a connection precludes the need for on-board telemetry, thoughon-board telemetry can still be used to transmit sales and fault reportsto data and sales centers.

Once payment is accepted by the system, the door of the compartmentholding the desired propane tank, liquid petroleum gas cylinders orsimilar items, is electronically unlocked and can be opened, therebyallowing the user to remove the item and subsequently close the door. Invarious embodiments the door can be opened automatically by the systemor manually opened by the user. Once the door is closed, it isautomatically locked. The compartment will generally not vend againuntil an item is restocked in the compartment and the system is reset bythe operator.

In one embodiment, software programming of the vending system assuresthat when the last item in a module or compartment is vended, thedisplay will indicate that the item is sold out. The system will notcharge the customer until they select an item that is available. Oncethe software receives a selection from the customer, it prompts thecustomer to swipe a credit/debit card via the user display (touchscreen,pad or keyboard). Once the card is swiped, the card reader checks foravailable funds through an onboard cellular data uplink (or other Pointof sale transmission). If funds are not available, the display promptsthe customer to try another card or source of payment. If funds areavailable, the software then communicates with the master module, whichdetermines which module will vend that particular item and the nextavailable door with that selection will open.

To facilitate restocking, master module control software generallyallows the operator to open all doors in any module (main modulesoftware sends a signal to each lock in that module and they all unlockand open). The system can also be set up with an additional “re-stock”selection that only opens the doors that have been vended since the lastrefill. The system can also be set up to continue vending from the firstcompartment that was vended prior to restock, or any un-vendedcompartments, to ensure product rotation which does not allow productsin later compartments to remain unsold for long periods of time and as aresult become degraded. The display also allows the operator todetermine that all modules have been found and assimilated, and setprices for each individual module or all modules and see errorindications in each compartment coinciding with door sensor, door andproximity sensor problems that can be corrected. Each screen on theowners section of the display can be password protected and thepasswords can be changed or deleted remotely. Where an electromagneticor electromechanical lock is used to secure the control door, a functionon the owners section of the display can actuate the lock to open thedoor without using a keyed lock.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A & 1B are a fronts view of an embodiment of a modular vendingsystem illustrating the module frame and doors, showing the modulesseparated and combined;

FIGS. 2A & 2B are a front and perspective view of the modular frame of asingle module assembly structure and lock and proximity housings of anembodiment of a modular vending system;

FIGS. 3A & 3B are aside and perspective view of the modular frame of asingle module assembly structure of an embodiment of a modular vendingsystem illustrating module exterior coverings and lock and proximitysensor housings, while FIG. 3C illustrates a removable shelf;

FIGS. 4A and 4B are side views of a module;

FIGS. 5A & 5B are common setup ups of the user interface and controldoor embodiments of a modular vending system;

FIG. 6A is view of an the exterior rear coving of a module;

FIG. 6B illustrates and upper item guide;

FIG. 6C shows the upper and lower item guides of an embodiment of themodular vending system;

FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C illustrate common roof assemblies;

FIG. 8A is view of the module floor assembly and FIGS. 8B & 8C are viewsof the lock and proximity sensor housings with sensors and locks of anembodiment of the modular vending system;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the modular vendingsystem illustrating a master module assembly an add-on module assemblyback to back with securing and mounting hardware;

FIGS. 10A-10D are illustrations of common configurations of anembodiment of the modular vending system;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of an embodiment of the master modulecomputing hardware with sensor and locking device wiring

FIG. 12 is exploded view of an add-on computing hardware and enclosureto an embodiment of the modular vending system;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a solar powered embodiment of the modularvending system;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a DC battery backup powered embodiment ofthe modular vending system;

FIGS. 15A and 15B present a block diagram showing operation of a modularvending system according to an embodiment;

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing use of a modular vending system by auser according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 17A-17D are illustrations of screens in the owners section of theuser interface according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 18A-18E are illustrations of screens in the user section of thecustomer interface depicting different phases of a sale according to anembodiment.

FIGS. 19A-19C show several variations for the configuration of modules;and

FIGS. 20A-20C are perspective views of a reconfigurable module indifferent configurations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various details and features of a modular vending system are generallydepicted in the FIGS. Although the modular vending system can be usedfor any number of purposes, the illustrated embodiments are especiallysuitable for vending items such as propane tanks, liquid petroleum gascylinders; and other items that must be stored in and dispensed from ahazardous location compliant system. The modular design and features ofthe vending system of the present invention allow it to occupy lessspace in a store front as compared to other vending systems, therebyincreasing store front aesthetics. In an embodiment of the modularvending system, a single master module can be electronically connectedto additional modules to optimize the storage space used for the itemsto be dispensed.

A power management system for the modular vending system may include DCbatteries with AC power to continuously charge the batteries so that thesystem can operate for up to 24 hours in the case of power disruptions.Alternatively, the system can use solar power, which allows the DCbatteries of the system to operate for an extended period of time. Thesystem can thus be operated in times of electrical interruption.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals represent likecomponents in the several views presented and discussed, and moreparticularly referring now to FIGS. 1A & 1B, an embodiment of modularoutdoor vending system 101 is depicted. Modular vending system 101 isgenerally comprised of a master module assembly 102 juxtaposed next toan add-on module assembly 127. As depicted in FIGS. 1, 10 and 11, amongothers, master module assembly 102 can be attached to add-on module 127with interlocking hardware 132. The master module assembly 102 has amaster module control and user interface 168 which consists of themaster module control compartment face 128, the card reader system 50,the Human Machine Interface (HMI) 51, and the ADA button 111 isconnected internally to a master module control box that also controlsthe functions of the compartments in the master module assembly 102 andadd-on module assemblies 127. The add-on module assemblies 127 aretypically of similar construction and materials as the master moduleassembly 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, add-on module assemblies 127 do not havebattery or battery tender requirements so that items can be dispensedfrom all module compartments of the add-on module assemblies 127 throughthe master module control compartment interface 166. The master moduleassembly 102 and the add-on module assemblies 127 may be fitted withtheir own shed style roof 124 made of metal. Each roof 124 may be fittedwith a roof light 165 that comes on during hours of darkness for themodule with the item being vended and goes off after the vending processhas ended to provide the necessary illumination when removing items fromthe compartments. Certain structural components of both master moduleassembly 102 and add-on modules assemblies 127 may be hot-dip galvanizedprior to installing additional parts and equipment. In some embodiments,solar panels 160 are installed on the roof 124 of the master moduleassembly 102 and add-on module assemblies 127 or to a mounting polelocated near the master module 102 to charge the DC batteries.

Referring to FIG. 2A, modular frame 104 of a single module assemblystructure may include metal iron channel 108, angle iron 106 and squaremetal tubing 107. The center channel 108 may have lock and strikernotches 129 to allow the electromagnetic lock to mate with the doorstriker. As generally illustrated in FIG. 2B, Each opening in the frontof the module frame 104, is fitted with a left door 114 or right door123 as appropriate and consisting of a door frame 116 and exterior doorcovering 117 and attached to the module frame 104 by a hinges 115. Thestriker plate 119 is mounted to the door frame 116 and has a striker 166mounted to it.

Referring to FIG. 3B, modular frame 104 of a single module assembly isillustrated. Modular Frame 104 will include a proximity sensor andwiring housing 112 and a locking device and wiring access housing 109which may be removable. These parts are generally constructed from metalbut can be of any sturdy material that are sufficient to carry theweight of the items being vending and preclude theft. Modular frame 104is specifically created to include a number of support holes 173, whichare designed to provide support for removable and adjustable shelves113. FIG. 3C provides a bottom view of one exemplary shelf 113, whichhas a number of extensions, pins or small posts 175 extending outwardly.It is contemplated that these posts 175 will be inserted into supportholes 173 to provide appropriate placement and holding of shelf 113.Naturally, other approaches could be used, including bolts, removablepins, spring loaded pins, or other structures capable of providingphysical support for shelves 113. It is also possible that hinges couldbe used, so the shelves 113 could be simply swung in and out ofposition, as needed.

Shown in FIG. 3A, the left door assemblies 114 and right door assemblies123 are attached to the module frame 104 with hinges 115. Additionallyup to six leveler/feet 118 are attached to the bottom of each moduleframe 104 to level each module and secure it to the ground.

Referring to FIG. 4, a module side view the module frame 104 and themodule exterior cover-side 110, along with the proximity sensor andwiring housing 112 and the Locking device and wiring access housing 109.This also shows another view of the leveler/feet 118 on the front andback of the module frame 104.

FIGS. 5A and 5B, show examples of a common master module control anduser interface 168 which consists of the master module controlcompartment face 128, a card reader system 50, Human Machine Interface(HMI) 51, and ADA button 111. Each of these components are connectedinternally to a master module control box (not shown) that also controlsthe functions of the compartments in the master module assembly 102 andadd-on module assemblies 127. FIG. 5A depicts common master modulecontrol and user interface 168 mounted in the upper right andcompartment of the master module assembly 102. FIG. 5B shows theinterface 168 mounted in the roof 124 although mounting of the interfacecan be in other areas or compartments depending on the configuration ofthe modular outdoor vending.

FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate the standard module back panel covering 122 whichmay have additional vent holes in the shape of propane cylinders foraesthetics, however any shape or vent design is appropriate. An itemguide upper 148 (see FIG. 6B) is placed and sized so that the propanetank or cylinder cannot be placed in the compartment upside down orlaterally and also prevents the tank from being removed should someonecut the various exterior coverings to gain access. The item guide-lower135 is secured to the compartment floor and is sized so that the tankbottom slides between the side legs. As shown in FIG. 6C, thecompartment is sized so that when the door 114 or 123 is shut the doorexterior covering 117 will contact the tank and push it in contact withthe rear leg of the item guide-lower 135, thus ensuring that it iswithin the sensing range of the proximity sensor 136 (in thisembodiment, this could be an Infrared, Ultra Violet, Inductive, pressureor capacitive sensor). As shown, proximity sensor 136 is mounted in eachcompartment in such a way that the proximity of the returned (empty)item activates the sensor and sends a signal to the controlling hardwarefor that module indicating that the item is present in the compartment.The sensor 136 has an adjustable depth for fine tuning by screwing orunscrewing the attached lock nut that mates with proximity sensor andwire housing 112.

FIG. 7 depicts various alternative views of common roof assemblies whichmay be used, depending on the configuration of the modular outdoorvending system 101.

FIG. 8A depicts a top down view of the module compartment floor 113which is comprised of item guide-lower 135, the lock and wiring housingcutout 134, the proximity sensor housing cut out 130 and the moduleexterior floor covering 169 which may be made of expanded metal or sheetmetal or other sturdy material. Also depicted in FIG. 8B is the explodedview of proximity sensor 136 and wiring housing 112 connected withproximity sensors 136 (again, Infrared, Ultra Violet, Inductive,pressure or capacitive are common choices). Proximity sensors 136 aremounted in each compartment in such a way that the proximity of thereturned (empty) item activates the sensor and sends a signal to thecontrolling hardware for that module, indicating that the item ispresent in the compartment. Proximity sensor mounts 142 are installed toaccommodate placement of proximity sensors 136. The locking device andwiring housing is also depicted in FIG. 8C, which includes an explodedview of the electronic locking devices 120 and the striker 166. A lockand striker notch 129 in the housing allows contact andlocking-unlocking operation of the striker 166 with the electronic lock120.

Referring to FIG. 9, an installation is shown in which two modules arealigned next to each other. Here, the positioning of the moduleinterlocking hardware 132 and an example of the system securing andfeet/levelling device 133 is also shown. According to this embodiment,master module assembly 102 is juxtaposed next to and behind an add-onmodule assembly 127. The add-on module 127 may have the add-on modulehardware 164 encased in the add-on controlling hardware enclosure 154and is positioned on the top module compartment. The add-on moduleassembly 127 is attached to the master module assembly 102 using themodule interlocking hardware 132. Additional add-on module assemblies127 may be linked together using the module interlocking hardware 118 toform a plurality of configurations. System securing devices 132 areattached to each module assembly and the levelers/feet are attached tothe ground to assure that the system is properly secured and will nottopple and injure potential customers trying to access the modulecompartments to retrieve items. Electronic locking device mounts 103 aredepicted showing where the electronic locking devices 120 are mounted.

The embodiment set forth in FIG. 9 includes main module 102 and oneadd-on module 127, with each of the modules including six (6)compartments. Depending on the type of products involved, andanticipated needs, the modules can easily be configured to havedifferent sizes and numbers of compartments. As an illustration, FIGS.19A-19C show a few possible variations for the possible modules add-onmodule 127. More specifically, FIG. 19A illustrates an add-on module127A having eight compartments, FIG. 19B illustrates an add-on module127B having six compartments, and FIG. 19C illustrates an add-on module127C also having six compartments, however some compartments havingdiffering sizes. It is contemplated that each compartment will have acorresponding door and locking mechanisms, thus providing a systemconfiguration that is very flexible and adaptable. Although FIG. 19illustrates different configurations for add-on modules 127, it will beunderstood that main module 102 can also be configured in many differentways. Additionally, many alternative configurations for the number andsize of compartments are possible.

Although not specifically illustrated in FIG. 9 or 19, it will beunderstood by one skilled in the art that compartment configurationwithin a module can be easily modified in many additional ways. Forexample, add-on module 127 could be configured to have only twoside-by-side compartments, with each compartment extending the entireheight of the module's frame. In this configuration, there would be nointernal shelves used, and two tall doors might exist. With these two“tall” compartments, large gas cylinders could be stored and vended in aconvenient manner. Using a related approach, the interior portions ofadd-on module 127 could be configured with removable shelves, so twocompartments could be reconfigured to form a single compartment bysimply removing a shelf. In this approach, the two related doors (i.e.those doors above and below the removed shelf) would need to operate ina coordinated manner to provide access to the combined compartment. Inyet another alternative, the shelves could be hinged, so an upper shelfcould simply be folded downward, again easily creating a compartmenthaving an increased size. With hinged or removable shelves, the operatorcould easily reconfigure the compartment even when the various modulesare placed in the field. Further, since each module has dedicatedcomputing hardware (e.g. add-on module computing hardware 146), it isvery convenient to carry out this reconfiguration. The dedicatedcomputing hardware for each module can easily be programmed to recognizethe module configuration (i.e. number and size of compartments,associated doors, etc.) and provide necessary signals back to the mainmodule control hardware. With this information, main module controlhardware is able to provide coordinated control of the overall system,and provide current information to the user (via HMI 51).

As appreciated by one skilled in the art, there are several ways toaccomplish the above mentioned reconfiguration features. FIGS. 20A-20Cgenerally outline one embodiment for achieving these features. In theconfigurations shown, add-on module 127 is configured withremovable/adjustable shelves. In FIG. 20A, the module 127D is configuredwith a frame structure so that four doors (not shown) would be used tocover the front openings. Here, all shelves have been removed, so onlytwo compartments are present. In FIG. 20B, the frame structure of module127E is again configured to accommodate four doors (again not shown) andto have four compartments. Here, the left hand side has a shelf inplace, thus defining two compartments on that side. The right had sidehas the shelf removed. In this configuration, the two compartments are“opened up” to create one large compartment by simply removing theshelf. FIG. 20C has only two compartments, however a movable shelf couldbe used to alter the use/configuration of the module. In thisconfiguration, it is contemplated that he module 127F will use only twodoors, but one compartment could be used to house multiple relatedproducts (e.g. a propane tank and related attachment, such as a heatingelement), with each product positioned on a particular shelf.

Referring now to FIG. 10, various common configurations of the modularoutdoor vending system 101 are depicted. In FIG. 10A, the straight lineconfiguration 150 shows the master module assembly 102 attached to aplurality of add-on module assemblies 127 which are arranged side byside. Here, roofs 124 can cover a single module, or two modules, whichincreases the stability of the modules by tying two modules together.The Triad configuration 156 shown in FIG. 10B, a top down view of themaster module assembly 102 joined at a ninety degree angle to two add onmodules 127 which are placed and secured back to back. The horseshoeconfiguration 163 is illustrated in FIG. 10C with compartments facinginward show groups of 2 modules arranged with the master module assembly102 on the right side but can be placed in any of the module positions.The tunnel configuration 131 shown in FIG. 10D the top down view of 2sets of inline configurations 150 facing each other with metal crossmembers 170 spanning and attaching to the roofs at regular intervals toprovide stability. One cross member is hollow and houses thecommunication and power wiring 164 to the next set of in line modules.The add-on computing hardware 146 is housed in the add on computinghardware enclosure 154 and may be placed in one of the modulecompartments or on the ceiling of the modules under the roof 124.

As shown in FIGS. 11 & 12, the master module computing system andassociated hardware 144 is shown, with the power cord 3 and the AC power138 connecting to the power supply 18 which in turns powers all theassociated hardware, including telemetry system 21, card reader 153, ADAbutton 145 and HMI 149. The Micro Controlling unit (MCU) 15 andassociated inputs/outputs, connect all these aforementioned items, alongwith the proximity sensors 136 and electromagnetic/electromechanicallocks 120. The master computing hardware is housed in the mastercomputing hardware enclosure 1 and can be located within in the upperright hand compartment of the master module assembly or anothercompartment in the master module assembly, or attached to the outer sideor front of the master module assembly. The HMI and ADA button arehoused on the back of the master module control compartment face andhoused in the HMI enclosure 54. Such positioning facilitates use bycustomers and maintainers and complies with the Americans withDisabilities Act (ADA) and other regulatory requirements. An “ADAbutton” 111 may also be mounted to the lower part of the compartmentfront at a height that meets ADA standards and is programmed to vendonly from compartments that are within the ADA specified heights fromthe ground.

A single item Master computing unit (such as MCU 15) and associatedinternal or external relays 16 & 17 may also be used to power andcontrol the entire system. Additional relays 16 and 17 can be added orremoved depending on the number of modules in the system. Theelectromagnetic/electromechanical lock 120 has a door lock sensingfunction built in to it. This includes a lock sensor (not shown) whichsends a signal to the controlling hardware, thus indicating when thedoor lock mechanism is in the closed or locked position. When the MCU 15receives the signal confirming that the door is closed, and a signal isprovided from the item proximity sensor indicating that the return ispresent, the final steps of the transaction can be completed. Morespecifically, the MCU 15 determines that a return has been made and islocked into the compartment, and thus provides a signal to thecredit/debit card system so the customer can be charged a predetermineddiscounted price. If after a predetermined time, the door locked signalis not transmitted or the door locked signal is present and theproximity sensor signal is not present, this indicates that a return hasnot been made and/or the door is not secure. The customer interface willalert the customer of this condition and if not corrected the MCU 15will signal the credit/debit card system to execute the sale at the fullprice. The customer interface will show that a full price sale wasexecuted and the vending system will return to the ready state and awaitanother customer request to vend.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 13 &14, DC batteries 140 and a batterytender 139 may be substituted for the power supply that converts ACpower to DC power. In this embodiment, batteries 140 and battery tender139 are used to power the MCU 15 (or multiple MCUs, or other type ofcomputing and operating hardware) along with all associated relays 16 &17. As generally discussed above, batteries 140 allow for the system'soperation if there is an AC power interruption. Alternately, the systemcan be operated using batteries 140 in conjunction with solar power. Tothat end, commercially available solar panels 160 can be installed onthe roof of the master 102 and add-on module 127 assemblies, or anyother convenient locations, such as the roof of the storefront or on topof a metal pole, so as to maximize solar capabilities. In thisembodiment, solar panels 160 are able to charge the DC batteries 140 viaa solar power battery charge controller 162 connected to the solarpanels 160 through solar collector wiring 161. As will be recognized bythose familiar with solar power systems, the solar power chargecontroller 162 brings the collected solar energy (from the solar panels)to the DC batteries 140 through the battery wiring 143, thus keeping thebatteries charged during the hours of daylight. Again, the optionalcapability of using solar panels 160 for powering the DC batteries 140allows the system to be placed in many different locations, such as adistance away from the store front, in a parking lot, or in other remoteareas such as state parks and camping sites where AC power may not beavailable. Besides eliminating the need for AC power requirement tooperate the vending system, the use of solar power can also lower theenergy required to operate the system while increasing functionality.

In addition to power consumption concerns, the systems outlined abovehelp to facilitate the vending of products in Class I, Division 2hazardous locations. The DC power levels typically contemplated by solaror battery systems are often below hazardous levels, thus significantlyreducing risks. In addition, provisions related to the compartment sizeand construction of the compartments provide additional levels ofsafety.

To provide additional features, and allow an operator to better servicethe vending systems, one or more of the compartment doors may also havea keyed lock that is connected to a mechanical release in theelectromagnetic/electromechanical lock system, thus providing theability to deal with electrical or mechanical issues within the system.By providing a keyed lock, the item can be manually vended by on sitepersonnel with the key to meet customer demand until other issues areresolved. Additionally, an override button may be mounted to anappropriate surface within the main computing hardwareenclosure/compartment-. Onsite personnel with a key or code to open themain computing hardware enclosure will then have access to the buttonThe override button is electrically connected to the master controllinghardware. Each time the button is pressed it will provide a signal tothe master controlling unit, causing it to vend the next unvendedcontainer in the system. The master controlling unit will record that anonsite sale has been made. This will facilitate cash sales if desired.

Referring again to FIG. 8C, modular vending system 101 may include alocking device and wiring access housing that mounts over all the locksand associated wiring. It is attached to the top of the module. When themodule roof face is removed the housing can be unattached and slid backto reveal the wiring and door locks and then slid forward andre-attached.

Also shown in FIG. 8B, a proximity sensor and wiring housing 112 is alsoadded to each module to house the proximity sensors and wiring. The topsection is attached in the same manner as the lock housing and whenunattached can be positioned to allow access to wiring and sensorshoused within. The sensor may comprise interlocking sections.Alternatively, the sensor housing may comprise a one-piece hollow metalstructure. Each sensor housing is accessible through an access door andmount 142 in its respective compartment to facilitate installation,removal and adjustment of the sensor.

In yet other embodiments of the modular vending system 101, manyvariations are possible. The modules can be made out of any metal orother sturdy material and the compartments can be of any size toaccommodate intended items. The shapes of the compartments can alsodiffer from those depicted in the figures to facilitate stocking andremoval of items. Modules can also be arranged in multipleconfigurations, including many options not depicted in the figures. Inlieu of a cashless system, any sort of payment device may besubstituted. The time that power is applied to the electronic lockingdevices can also vary. In this modular vending system, solar power usinga battery tender to maintain the batteries of the system can be used;however, one skilled in the art will recognize any power source may beused to power the vending system so that DC batteries are not required.

Modular vending system 101 may also be equipped with features designedto facilitate use by disabled individuals. In one embodiment, mastermodule control compartment interface 168 incorporates a push buttonpositioned at a height of 40″ to 48″ above the ground. Further, themodular vending system 101 will only vend items located in certaincompartments, such as, those compartments in compliance with theheight-requirements set forth by the ADA. (In many cases this will bethe middle compartments of each module.) The push button may alsoinclude instructions or other indicia of operation written in Braille.Additional features may include an audio player and speaker operablyconnected to a proximity sensor. In this manner, the proximity sensormay be activated by a prospective user approaching modular vendingsystem 101, triggering an audible alert identifying the location and/orfunctionality of modular vending system 101.

FIG. 15 generally illustrates a flow chart outlining common customeractions. Similarly, FIG. 18 shows the greetings and customer messagesgenerated by the system. Having thus described the various embodimentsvarious methods of operating the modular vending system 101 will now bedescribed. In one example, an embodiment, a user wishing to purchase alarge item such as a propane tank, or liquid petroleum gas cylindersapproaches the modular vending system 101 and, facing the master modulecontrol compartment interface (HMI) such as touch screen or key pad 51,can select an item for purchase. This could be done by selecting acompartment, or selecting the type of produce desired. If all the itemsin that module are sold out, the display will prompt the user withappropriate information and allow the user to make another selection.

Once the item selection is made, the user presses a corresponding key onthe product selection HMI (touchscreen or keypad) 51. The productselection display window displays the price and item number and promptsthe user to swipe their credit/debit card in the card reader system 50.This also causes a wireless connection to be made via the telemeter 21,to the credit card verification company. Using this connection, thesystem 101 determines the validity of the credit/debit card anddetermines whether the user has sufficient funds to purchase the item.

Once the credit/debit card is confirmed, the product selection display51 will show that the sale has been authorized and also show from whichcompartment the item will be dispensed. Master computing hardware 144can then determine if the selected item is in the master module assembly102 or located within another module. If the desired product is in themaster module assembly 102, the master computing hardware will send asignal to the relay 16 or 17 controlling the lock 120 and proximitysensor in the first compartment containing the selected item. The Mastercomputing hardware will first check to ensure there are no existingerrors, such as sensor inoperative, no item detected, door notindicating locked, door indicating jammed, or compartment alreadyvended. If there are no errors, then relays 16 and 17 will in turnprovide voltage to the appropriate electronic locking device 120, and tomodule light 165 for a predetermined period of time. If the door lockdoes not open, the Master Computing hardware 144 will resend a signal tothe lock to open it. If it still does not open, the master computinghardware 144 will de-active the compartment, log a door error and go tothe next compartment that passes the various diagnostic checks.Alternatively lock 120 disengages from the striker 166, the door willspring open. The door assembly of each door frame 116 may include aspring, or other biasing member, such as a spring-loaded rod to causethe door to open. The biasing member is typically incorporated into thehinge of door frame 116. When the door is unlocked, the biasing memberurges the compartment door into the open position. Since the biasingmember pushes the corresponding compartment door away from theclosed/locked position, each biasing member also functions to deter toinadvertent closure of a compartment door.

Since power will still be supplied to the locking mechanism, the door114 or 123 can still be reopened in case the user accidently closes doorprior to removal of the item. The module light 165 provides thenecessary visibility in locating the correct item. The computingsoftware is set in a manner that it only unlocks a compartment onceuntil the system is restocked. The next selection of that item type willactivate the next stocked compartment, until all items in that moduleare dispensed. Any further selections of that item type may display amessage, such as “sold out, make another selection”, on the HMI 51 andor card reader interface 50. Once the user removes the item from thecompartment the customer interface will prompt the user to place anempty item back into the compartment and shut the door if they have areturn. When they complete this task the computing hardware will detectthe return and a closed door, and will then charge the customer thediscounted return price. If the customer does not return an empty itemor leaves the door open for a predetermined amount of time, thecomputing software will detect this and charge the customer a higherprice because there is no return. After this is complete the customerinterface will indicate that the transaction is complete and display theamount the customer was charged.

When an add-on module assembly 127 is connected to the master moduleassembly 102 or to another add-on module assembly 127 already in thesystem, the proximity sensor wiring 158 is connected to the appropriateenclosure (main or add on) bulkhead 170 fitting and the locking devicepower and sensor wiring, is connected to it corresponding bulkheadfitting 121, the new modules can be acquired by the master computinghardware 144. This can be done either manually on the owners screen,where system size can be programmed or automatically, where mastercomputing hardware 144 can automatically communicate with each add-onmodule 127 and acquire it via proprietary software. Master computinghardware can then assimilate the additional module into the system sothat items can be dispensed from that particular add-on module 127. Thenumber of add-on module assemblies 127 is generally unlimited withrespect to the system requirements of modular vending system 101. Onceconnected, the add-on module assemblies will provide appropriatecommunication to the master computing hardware 144 (and specifically MCU15 therein). In some embodiments, add-on computing hardware 146 willprovide periodic signals to master computing hardware 144, indicatingstatus information. In this manner, master computing hardware 144 willbe able to coordinate the operation of the overall system, while stillrelying on add-on computing hardware 146 to perform operations specificto add-on module assembly 127 (e.g. actuating door locks, and monitoringsensors).

During vending operations, when the master computing hardware 144determines an item is not in the master module assembly 102, it powersdown the lock 120 and proximity sensor 136 for the main module, andpowers up the next add on module. Master computing hardware then runsthrough a diagnostic process as previously described, and is then ableto vend from the next working and filled compartment. The system willcomplete these functions for every transaction, powering only one moduleat a time to conserve energy. When all items have been vended out thecustomer interface will display “sold out” until restocked.

As suggested above, the master computing hardware 144 controls theentire operation of this vending system 101. When power is applied tosystem 101, the Master Controlling hardware 144 powers up and retainspricing information, number of add-on modules or compartments in thesystem and which compartments have been previously vended. In thismanner, sales operations are not impeded, should power be interruptedand then turned back on. The master controlling hardware 144 runscontinuous self-diagnostic checks to assure relays and sensing equipmentare operational, and then sends a signal to all add-on computinghardware systems 146, at a predetermined time, to conduct similarself-diagnostic checks and signal proper operation back to the mastercomputing hardware 144. The status is also periodically transmitted tothe credit card telemetry system 21 and uplinked to databases for remotehealth tracking of the entire system 101. The self-diagnostic checks aretypically stored in the touchpad interface (HMI) and the MCU(controlling hardware) and can be accessed by an on-screen repairfunction. By selecting the on-screen repair function, an operator canaccess a list of Compartments and their respective faults so thatnecessary repairs can be made and/or preventative maintenance can beperformed. Faults may be additional transmitted to a data and/orcommunication center periodically and/or upon occurrence of respectivefaults via the telemetry system) of modular vending system 101.

Referring to FIGS. 15 & 16 methods for vending and purchasing items,such as propane tanks, liquid petroleum gas cylinders of various sizesand other items that must be stored in and dispensed from a hazardouslocation compliant system. from modular vending system 101 according tovarious embodiments are shown and described. The telemetry system 21 canalso receive remoted signals and transmit to the master controllinghardware to change prices of each module or compartment and updatefirmware. Prices can also be changed at the machine using a customerinterface or from a portable device or computer plugged into the mastercomputing hardware.

Referring to FIGS. 1-18, the reference numerals shown therein refer tothe following:

-   -   1 MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE ENCLOSURE    -   2 BACKPLATE    -   3 POWER CORD    -   4 GFCI BREAKER    -   5 BREAKER BASE    -   6 TERMINAL    -   7 END STOP    -   8 END PLATE    -   9 10P PLUG-IN BRIDGE    -   10 FUSED TERMINAL    -   11 FUSED TERMINAL END PLATE    -   12 MARKER CARD    -   13 10 A FUSE    -   14 2 A FUSE    -   15 MICRO COMPUTING UNIT    -   16 DIGITAL INPUT CARD    -   17 RELAY OUTPUT CARD    -   18 120 W 24 VDC POWER SUPPLY    -   19 2-POSITION SELECTOR SWITCH    -   20 CASH SALE PUSHBUTTON    -   21 TELEMETRY SYSTEM    -   25 ⅜″ LIQUID TIGHT STRAIN RELIEF    -   50 CARD READER SYSTEM    -   51 HUMAN MACHINE INTERFACE (HMI)    -   54 HMI ENCLOSURE    -   57 ½″ LIQUID TIGHT STRAIN RELIEF    -   62 LOCK BULKHEAD    -   63 PROX SENSOR BULKHEAD    -   64 COMMON USER INTERFACE COMBINATION    -   101 MODULAR VENDING SYSTEM    -   102 MASTER MODULE ASSEMBLY    -   103 ELECTRONIC LOCKING DEVICE MOUNTS    -   104 MODULE FRAME    -   106 ANGLE IRON    -   107 METAL TUBING    -   108 MODULE CENTER CHANNEL    -   109 LOCKING DEVICE AND WIRING ACCESS HOUSING    -   110 MODULE EXTERIOR COVERING-SIDE    -   111 ADA BUTTON    -   112 PROXIMITY SENSOR AND WIRING HOUSING    -   113 SHELF    -   114 LEFT DOOR ASSEMBLY    -   115 DOOR HINGE    -   116 DOOR FRAME    -   117 EXTERIOR DOOR COVERING    -   118 LEVELER/FEET    -   119 STRIKER PLATE    -   120 ELECTRONIC LOCKING DEVICE    -   121 LOCKING DEVICE POWER AND SENSING WIRING    -   122 EXTERIOR BACK COVERING    -   123 RIGHT DOOR ASSEMBLY    -   124 ROOF    -   125 CREDIT CARD READER POWER WIRING    -   127 ADD-ON MODULE ASSEMBLY    -   128 MASTER MODULE CONTROL COMPARTMENT FACE    -   129 LOCK AND STRIKER NOTCH    -   130 PROXIMITY SENSOR HOUSING CUT OUT    -   131 TUNNEL CONFIGURATION, COMPARTMENTS FACING IN    -   132 MODULE INTERLOCKING HARDWARE    -   134 LOCK AND WIRING HOUSING CUT OUT    -   135 ITEM GUIDE—LOWER    -   136 PROXIMITY SENSOR    -   137 SENSOR WIRING HARNESS    -   138 AC POWER    -   139 BATTERY TENDER    -   140 DC BATTERIES    -   141 LOCK    -   142 PROXIMITY SENSOR MOUNT    -   143 BATTERY WIRING    -   144 MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE    -   145 CARD READER ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR    -   146 ADD-ON COMPUTING HARDWARE    -   147 MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE POWER WIRING    -   148 ITEM GUIDE-UPPER    -   149 HMI ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR    -   150 STRAIGHT LINE CONFIGURATION    -   151 MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE AND TELEMETER COMMUNICATION WIRING    -   152 TELEMETER POWER WIRING    -   153 ADA BUTTON ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR    -   154 ADD-ON CONTROLLING HARDWARE ENCLOSURE    -   155 ADA BUTTON WIRING    -   156 TRIAD CONFIGURATION, 3 MODULES FACE OUT WITH MASTER IN FRONT    -   157 CREDIT CARD READER INTERFACE AND TELEMETER COMMUNICATION        WIRING    -   158 PROXIMITY SENSOR WIRING    -   159 CREDIT CARD READER TO MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE        COMMUNICATION WIRING    -   160 SOLAR COLLECTOR    -   161 SOLAR COLLECTOR WIRING    -   162 SOLAR POWER CHARGE CONTROLLER    -   163 HORSESHOE CONFIGURATION WITH COMPARTMENTS FACING IN    -   164 MASTER COMPUTING HARDWARE TO ADD ON COMPUTING HARDWARE        WIRING    -   165 LIGHT    -   166 STRIKER    -   168 MASTER MODULE CONTROL AND USER INTERFACE    -   169 MODULE EXTERIOR FLOOR COVERING    -   170 BULKHEAD    -   171 CROSSMEMBER    -   172 HOLLOW CROSSMEMBER WITH 164 WIRING INSIDE    -   173 HOLES    -   175 PINS OR POSTS

As shown in FIGS. 17A-17D sample owners page are displayed at varioustimes during Owner Mode. In this Owner mode (see, FIG. 16A) the system101 displays choice of “open All”, “change prices”, “Repair”, “Changepassword”, “Restock”, “system size”, “open Control door” and “exit”, tofacilitate sales, restocking, resetting, and repairing the system. Thesefunctions are relatively self-explanatory. That said, the “repair”function and can be used to reset error codes following repair of thecomponent or malfunction that caused the error code. Once selected theuser can scroll through each module to check for errors, repair andretest the module. An example of the “repair” user interface isillustrated in FIG. 16C.

Similarly, when “Change prices” is selected the master module computinghardware allows the user to set display prices and prices after tax forthe entire system 101 or each module 102 or 127. An example of thisfunctionality is shown in FIG. 16B. When “Restock” is pressed, only thedoors that have vended since the last restock will open to facilitatequick and accurate restocking. “Open All” will open all doors in thesystem sequentially only powering one lock at a time to ensure an overamperage condition does not occur. “System Size” shows the number ofdoors the computing hardware has in the system and can be overridden ifthe number is incorrect. One example of the user interface to achievethis is shown in FIG. 16D. Pressing “control door” will open the mastermodule control and user interface compartment to gain access to the mainenclosure 1 and HMI enclosure 54. Lastly, “Exit” causes the owners modeto be exited. Once the prices are set and the product restocked the usercan press “exit” to return to the customer mode. If this is omitted, thedisplay will revert to customer mode at a predetermined time.

As mentioned above, a sensor 136 (Infrared, Ultra Violet, Inductive,pressure or capacitive are common choices) is mounted in eachcompartment in such a way that the proximity of a stocked (full) orreturned (empty) item activates the sensor and sends a signal to thecontrolling hardware for that module indicating that the item is presentin the compartment. The compartment is sized so that the stocked itemcan only be placed in the correct position to activate the proximitysensor when the door is closed. An electromagnetic/electromechanicallock is also utilized that has a door lock sensing function built in toit. This lock sensor or sensors sends a signal to the controllinghardware indicating when the door lock mechanism is in the closed orlocked position indicating that the door is closed and engaged with thestriker mechanism.

As indicated above, the size of each compartment facilitates properplacement of a returned item within the compartment. Each compartmentmay also be configured such that closing the door of the compartmentfacilitates proper placement of a returned item (such as a propane tankor liquid petroleum gas cylinder). Specifically, when a door is closed,it makes contact with the returned item, thereby urging the returned ittoward the correct location within the compartment. As shown in FIG. 6C,the floor of each compartment may include rails 135 to further guide thereturned item into its proper storage position as the door to thecompartment is closed. In embodiments wherein modular vending system 101is adapted to vend propane and/or liquid petroleum gas, the top portionof each compartment may include a bracket 148 or other structure adaptedto create an obstruction that impedes improper insertion of a bottle,tank or cylinder, such as if the cylinder or bottle were to be placed ina compartment upside down. (See, e.g. FIG. 6B).

Additionally, the compartments are sized so that if an individualattempts to gain unauthorized access, such as by cutting the expandedmetal sides or a door to a compartment, the item being vended will notfit through the frame. This is particularly beneficial as a deterrent totheft of high-value items, such as propane, liquid petroleum gas orreturned bottles, tanks cylinders.

A further feature and advantage of the present invention is theintegration of safeguards against un-executable sales. In particular,module vending system 70 of the present will bypass malfunctioning,nonfunctional or empty compartments before executing a sale and openinga door to a compartment. For example, each compartment may include aproximity sensor 136 disposed therein. Prior to executing a sale, mastermodule control compartment interface 168 will interrogate proximitysensor to verify whether the compartment contains an item, such as atank, cylinder or bottle for propane or liquid petroleum gas. If theproximity sensor 136 confirms that the compartment contains an unvendeditem, the corresponding door will be opened and the sale will beexecuted. If the proximity sensor 136 does not confirm that thecompartment contains an unvended item, or if it confirms that thecompartment does not contain an unvended item, master module controlcompartment interface 168 will subsequently interrogate a proximitysensor 136 in the next compartment and repeat the steps above until acompartment with an unvended item is found.

Prior to executing a sale, master module computing hardware 144 cansimilarly interrogate a door cam sensor to verify whether thecompartment door is open (which may indicate that the compartment doesnot contain an item). If the door cam sensor confirms that the door isclosed and locked, the corresponding door will be opened and the salewill be executed. If the proximity sensor does not confirm that the dooris closed or locked, or if it confirms that the compartment door isopen, unlocked or jammed, the master module control hardware 144 willsubsequently interrogate a door cam sensor in the next compartment andrepeat the steps above until a compartment with no faults are found.

After the lock is activated to open the door to a compartment, thecomputing hardware 144 can interrogate the door cam to determine if thedoor to the compartment is open. If the door cam sensor indicates thatthe door is open, the door will remain unlocked. If the door cam sensorindicates that the door is closed, then the computing hardware willre-activate the door lock. Alternatively, or additionally, the computinghardware may activate the door lock after a predetermined period oftime.

If the door cam sensor indicates that the door is closed after beingopened without the proximity sensor 136 sensing that the item has beenremoved, the computer hardware will interpret this as an accidentalclosure and open the door again and/or not de-activate the lock and thedoor will not lock until the item is removed.

When the controlling hardware 144 receives the signal that the door isclosed and there is a signal from the item proximity sensor 136 that thereturn is present, the computing software will determine that a returnhas been made and locked into the compartment and will signal the mastercontroller hardware to signal the credit/debit card software to charge apredetermined discounted price. If after a predetermined time, the doorlocked signal is not transmitted or the door locked signal is presentand the proximity sensor signal is not present, this indicates that areturn has not been made and/or the door is not secure. The customerinterface will alert the customer of this condition and if not correctedthe master controlling hardware will signal the credit/debit card systemto execute the sale at the full price. The customer interface will showthat a full price sale was executed and the vending system will returnto the ready state and await another customer request to vend. A printedreceipt system is also available to install should the need arise.

Modular vending system 101 will generally vend the contents of a firstcompartment in the first module 102 and then will not access thatcompartment until the module is refilled and reset. The next sale willopen the next compartment door and so on. For embodiments of modularvending system 101 having only a first master module assembly 102 but noadd-on module assembly 127, the customer interface will display a “soldout” or similar message when the last item in first master moduleassembly 102 is vended. For embodiments of modular vending system 101having first master module assembly 102 and at least one add-on moduleassembly 127, the customer interface will not display a “sold out” orsimilar message when the last item in first master module assembly 102is vended; rather, modular vending system 101 will automatically allowaccess to the first available compartment in the next add-on moduleassembly 127 and continue vending until the last compartment in thefinal add-on module assembly 127 is vended. The customer interface maythen display a “sold out” or similar message.

The credit/debit card reader interface and telemetry is a commerciallyavailable system that includes a cellular uplink to authorize andcomplete cashless transactions. This credit card system communicateswith the master computing hardware via RS-232, USB, ethernet or similarconnection.

In an embodiment, there is only one product sold and there are only twopossible prices A=price with return or B=price with no return. B willalways be the larger amount so that price should always be used for theauthorization. These values will be stored in Master Computing hardwarememory and be able to be changed at the machine or remotely. Dependingon the amount of modules in the system there may not be any add-onmodule controlling hardware, as the master can control multiple modulesdepending on the specific Micro Controlling Unit used in the embodimentand if add-on modules exceed the MCU 15 capacity then controllinghardware can be added that open appropriate doors and control sensinghardware and communicate back to the master controlling hardware viawiring harnesses. The master Controlling hardware will query the systemto determine how many compartments are in the system and then at thelast compartment counted set up a “sold out” value to be signaled to thecard reader system after that compartment is vended and the mastercomputing hardware will continue to send that signal until the system isrefilled and reset.

To start the sales process, a customer selects an item and inputsselection on a keypad, touchscreen, press a button associated with theproduct they desire or any other form of customer interface. In anembodiment, the master computing hardware determines the stored price ofthe item and sends a signal to the appropriate module computing hardwareto query if there are unvended items remaining in that module. If thereare not, it will sent a signal to the message screen that alerts thecustomer to select another item and then the master controlling systemreturns to the ready state. If there are unvended items in the selectedmodule, the master computing hardware transmits Binary code via RS-232,USB or similar connection to the credit card reader which in turnperforms a cellular uplink to query the credit card provider and obtainan authorization. If the pending sale is not authorized a message willbe displayed on the credit card interface indicating the card was notauthorized and to use another card. A signal is also send back to themaster computing hardware that the card failed and it resets to theready state. If the transaction is authorized, the card reader will senda signal to the master control hardware that the card has beenauthorized and the master computing hardware determines what module willvend the selected item and then sends a signal to the appropriate moduleand that module controlling hardware, in turn, sends a signal to thelock of the next unvended compartment to unlock. Once the signal hasbeen sent to the appropriate lock, that module controlling hardware willsignal the master control hardware that the item has vended. The mastercontrolling hardware in turn sends a signal to the card reader systemwhich uplinks and charges the Authorized amount to the customer's creditcard. The card reader system then displays the amount that was chargedand an end of transaction message. The card reader system and the mastercomputer hardware system returns to the ready state.

In an alternative embodiment, the master computing hardware determinesthe stored price of the item and sends a signal to the first unvendedcompartment to query if there is an unvended item remaining in thatmodule via presence of door and proximity sensor signals. This precludesvending an empty compartment or vending from a compartment that has afaulty sensor that would give an incorrect reading showing door open oritem not present should a return be placed in the compartment.

The various embodiments a modular vending system described herein shouldnot be construed to limit the scope of the present invention. It is tobe understood that the embodiments of the present invention as describedherein do not limit any application or scope of the invention and thatthe invention can be carried out and practiced in various ways andimplemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in thedescription above. One skilled in the art will recognize thatalternatives, modifications, and variations of the embodiments of thepresent invention may be construed as being within the spirit and scopeof the present invention and the appended claims.

1. A vending system for vending propane containers, the vending systemfurther meeting the requirements for use in a Class I, Division 2location, comprising: a main housing having a plurality of compartments,a plurality of corresponding doors configured to enclose a correspondingone of the compartments and at least one sensor within each compartmentto detect the presence of a propane container; a control systemcontained within the main housing having a master controller; a userinterface in communication with the control system; and wherein each ofthe compartments and corresponding doors have a cooperating sealedelectromechanical lock/latch configured to latch/unlatch the door andthus allow a for customer to gain access to the compartment for purposesof propane container exchanges or purchases; and wherein each sealedlock/latch and each sensor is sufficiently sealed such that it isapproved for use in the Class I, Division 2 location.
 2. The system ofclaim 1 wherein the master controller is further configured tocoordinate payment from the user for the product, prior to providinguser access to the compartment.
 3. The system of claim 2 wherein paymentcomprises the processing of a credit card transaction or a pre-purchasedauthorization code.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein the containmentstructures within the main compartments are configured to cause thepropane container to be positioned in a predetermined relationship withthe proximity sensor.
 5. The system of claim 1 wherein vending of theproduct is achieved by communicating signals from the master controlleror the add-on controller to a relay operating with the door latchingmechanism for the door enclosing the vend compartment, wherein thesignals cause the door to be opened.
 6. A hazardous material vendingsystem, comprising: a housing having a plurality of compartments sizedand configured to contain a product to be vended; a closure doorcooperating with the housing to allow controlled access to the pluralityof compartments; a sealed electromechanical locking devices associatedwith the closure door, the sealed electromechanical locking devicehaving a seal structure and an electromechanical locking mechanism, withthe seal structure capable of containing the locking mechanism so as tosuppress any arching and sparking created by back electromotive forceswithin the electromechanical locking mechanism, wherein the sealingstructure thereby prevents any uncontained sparking conditions andpermits operation of the vending system in class I, division 2 hazardouslocations.
 7. The vending system of claim 6 wherein the sealedelectromechanical locking mechanism comprises an electrical motor andthe seal structure comprises a housing having a sealed motor compartmentconfigured to contain the electrical motor.
 8. The vending system ofclaim 7 wherein the sealed motor compartment is configured so that it iscapable of being immersed in water at a temperature of 50±2{circumflexover ( )}° C. to a minimum depth of 25 mm for a minimum of 1 minute andshow no signs of leakage or bubbling.
 9. The vending system of claim 7wherein the sealed motor compartment is configured to that it is capableof maintaining its sealing when being immersed to a minimum depth of 75mm in water and then being partially evacuated such that the airpressure within the enclosure is reduced by at least 16 kPa, and therebynot allowing any bubbles to emerge therefrom.
 10. The vending system ofclaim 7 wherein the sealed motor compartment has a leak rate of notgreater than 10.5 ml of air per second at a minimum pressuredifferential of 101 kPa.
 11. The vending system of claim 6 furthercomprising a control system having a master controller and a userinterface, the master controller in communication with the lockingdevice and configured to coordinate operation of the door in response topredetermined commands produced by a user operating the user interface,thereby allowing access to at least one of the plurality ofcompartments.
 12. The vending system of claim 11 further comprising aplurality of doors and a plurality of sealed electromechanical lockingdevices, wherein each of the plurality of compartments has acorresponding one of the plurality of doors thereby forming a pluralityof compartment/door pairs, and wherein each of the compartment/door pairhas a corresponding one of the locking devices cooperating therewith.13. The vending system of claim 12 wherein the master controllermaintains an inventory of which of the plurality of compartments containproduct to vend, and will coordinate vending activity in response touser commands so that only those compartments having product to vendwill be accessed.
 14. The vending system of claim 13 further comprisinga plurality of door sensors and a plurality of product sensors, with thedoors sensors and the product sensors being in communication with themaster controller to thereby communicate the presence of a product tovend and to communication a signal indicative of the door status. 15.The vending system of claim 14 wherein the door sensors and the productsensors are non-contact sensors which do not create a risk of sparking.16. An automated hazardous material vending system configured to allow auser to obtain access to a Class I, Division 2 hazardous product withoutfurther human involvement, comprising: a user interface configured toproduce user signals in response to input of information by the user; acontrol system in communication with the user interface to receive usersignals, the control system further comprising a master controller; amain housing having a plurality of compartments, with each of theplurality of compartments configured to house the Class I, Division 2product; at least one closure door providing access to at least one ofthe plurality of compartments; a sealed electromechanical locking deviceassociated with the at least one closure door and in communication withthe control system, the sealed electromechanical locking device having aseal structure and an electromechanical locking mechanism operating alock striker, with the seal structure capable of containing the lockingmechanism so as to permit operation of the vending system in the classI, division 2 hazardous location; a product sensor positioned within thecompartment to produce a presence signal indicative of the presence ofthe hazardous product; the product sensor in communication with themaster controller; and a door sensor system positioned adjacent the atleast one closure door and in communication with the master controller,the door sensor system configured to indicate a door status, includingan indication of whether the door is open, in a closed position with thelock striker captured, or in closed position with the lock striker notcaptured, the door sensor system further configured to communicate asignal to the master controller indicative of the door status; whereinthe master controller will coordinate vending operations in response touser input, including producing signals to operate the door lock andprovide access to only those compartments which contain products. 17.The automated hazardous material vending system of claim 16 wherein thelocking mechanism comprises an electrical motor and the seal structurecomprises a housing having a sealed motor compartment configured tocontain and seal the electrical motor so as to protect its surroundingsfrom arcing or sparking.
 18. The automated hazardous material vendingsystem of claim 17 wherein the product sensor is a magnetic sensor anddoes not include any electrical break elements.
 19. The automatedhazardous material vending system of claim 18 wherein the door sensorsystem is also contained within the housing so as to protect itssurroundings from arcing or sparking.